USS Lipan (ATF-85)

• World War II Service: USS Lipan (ATF-85) was a Cherokee-class fleet tug commissioned in 1943 and played a crucial support role during World War II, especially in the Pacific Theater. • Namesake: The ship was named after the Lipan Apache, a Native American tribe, following the tradition of naming fleet tugs after Native American tribes. • Iwo Jima Operations: USS Lipan participated in the historic Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945, providing vital towing and salvage operations during the invasion. • Surviving Typhoons: The ship survived violent Pacific typhoons while performing towing duties, exemplifying the toughness of both the vessel and her crew. • Atomic Bomb Tests: Lipan took part in Operation Crossroads at Bikini Atoll in 1946, towing target ships and providing support during the atomic bomb tests. • Korean War Support: During the Korean War, USS Lipan was reactivated and served by towing ships and assisting in rescue and salvage missions. • Rescue Missions: The ship was often called upon to rescue disabled vessels, earning commendations for saving ships and lives in challenging conditions. • Vietnam War Service: Lipan operated in the Vietnam War zone, providing logistic and rescue support to the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet in the 1960s. • Long Service Life: The vessel served the U.S. Navy for over three decades, from 1943 until her decommissioning in 1978. • Final Fate: After decommissioning, USS Lipan was transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) in 1978, where she continued her service as ROCS Da Gang (ATF-551).